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7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in New Zealand

Friday, December 15: Arrive in Auckland

Welcome to New Zealand! Start your adventure in Auckland, the country's largest city. In the morning, explore the vibrant Viaduct Harbour, known for its restaurants and entertainment. Head to the Auckland War Memorial Museum in the afternoon to learn about New Zealand's history and culture. In the evening, take a stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy dinner at one of the local waterfront restaurants.

  • Viaduct Harbour: Cost varies, 3-4 hours
  • Auckland War Memorial Museum: NZD 25 per adult, 2-3 hours
  • Auckland Waterfront: Free, 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 16: Rotorua

Travel to Rotorua, a geothermal wonderland. Start your morning with a visit to Te Puia, where you can witness the impressive Pōhutu geyser and explore the Maori cultural center. In the afternoon, head to the Redwoods Forest and experience the thrilling Redwoods Treewalk. End the day with a relaxing soak in the Polynesian Spa, known for its mineral-rich hot pools.

  • Te Puia: NZD 59 per adult, 3-4 hours
  • Redwoods Treewalk: NZD 30 per adult, 1-2 hours
  • Polynesian Spa: NZD 35 per adult, 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 17: Waitomo

Embark on an underground adventure in Waitomo. Start your day with a guided tour of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you can marvel at the magical glowworms illuminating the caves. Afterward, visit the Hobbiton Movie Set, a must-see for fans of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies. End the day with a scenic drive to Taupo.

  • Waitomo Glowworm Caves: NZD 55 per adult, 2-3 hours
  • Hobbiton Movie Set: NZD 84 per adult, 2-3 hours
  • Scenic drive to Taupo: Free, 2-3 hours
Monday, December 18: Taupo

Wake up to the stunning Lake Taupo. Start your day with a visit to Huka Falls, where you can witness the powerful waterfalls up close. In the afternoon, explore the Craters of the Moon, a geothermal area with bubbling mud pools and steam vents. End the day with a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Taupo, enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

  • Huka Falls: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Craters of the Moon: NZD 8 per adult, 1-2 hours
  • Lake Taupo Boat Cruise: NZD 35 per adult, 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 19: Wellington

Travel to Wellington, the vibrant capital of New Zealand. Start your morning by visiting the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, where you can explore the country's rich history and diverse culture. In the afternoon, take a ride on the iconic Wellington Cable Car and enjoy panoramic views of the city. End the day with a stroll along the waterfront promenade and indulge in some delicious seafood.

  • Te Papa Tongarewa Museum: Free (donations welcome), 3-4 hours
  • Wellington Cable Car: NZD 5 per adult, 1-2 hours
  • Waterfront Promenade: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 20: Queenstown

Fly to Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of New Zealand. Start your day with a thrilling jet boat ride on the Shotover River. In the afternoon, take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Bob's Peak and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. End the day by exploring the charming streets of Queenstown and trying out some local cuisine.

  • Shotover Jet Boat Ride: NZD 159 per adult, 2 hours
  • Queenstown Gondola: NZD 44 per adult, 1-2 hours
  • Exploring Queenstown: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 21: Milford Sound

Embark on a scenic journey to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most stunning natural wonders. Start your day with a scenic drive to Fiordland National Park. Upon arrival, take a memorable cruise through the majestic fiord, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Explore the underwater world with a kayak tour or simply enjoy the serenity of the surroundings. Return to Queenstown in the evening.

  • Scenic Drive to Milford Sound: Free, 4-5 hours
  • Milford Sound Cruise: NZD 80 per adult, 2-3 hours
  • Kayak Tour: NZD 99 per adult, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Waimangu Volcanic Valley near Rotorua. This geothermal area offers unique walking trails through steaming landscapes, colorful hot springs, and even the world's largest hot water spring. It's a fascinating place for the whole family to explore and learn about the Earth's natural wonders.

Check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.

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